Here is what you should do if you're interested in joining our group

We invite applications to join the behavior and metabolism laboratory (Ribeiro lab) at the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown. We aim at using state of the art metabolomics and genomics approaches to identify how nutrients and the microbiome alter brain function. Recent research has highlighted the importance of nutrients and the gut microbiome in controlling physiology and behavior. How nutrients and gut microbes influence brain function to alter behavior is currently one of the big mysteries in biology. We have recently shown that two specific gut bacteria species alter feeding decisions in the powerful genetic model organism Drosophilamelanogaster (Leitão-Gonçalves et al., 2017). We are now focusing on identifying the mechanisms by which nutrition and the microbiome alter the host brain to change behavior.

We aim at filling two positions:

1) A fully funded postdoctoral position

You will participate in an interdisciplinary, collaborative project between the Ribeiro lab and a leading metabolomics lab in the UK. We aim at establishing and using metabolomics and fluxomics approaches to identify the metabolites by which gut microbes act on the brain to influence the behavior of the host. The position involves using state-of-the-art metabolomics approaches, automated, quantitative behavioral assays, and other cutting-edge molecular and circuit neuroscience approaches to identify the mechanisms by which gut bacteriainfluence brain function.

2) A fully funded bioinformatician position (postdoctoral level)

You will participate in an interdisciplinary, collaborative project between the Ribeiro lab and leading metabolomics, fluxomics and genomics labs. We aim at establishing and using metabolomics, fluxomics, and transcriptomics approaches to identify the metabolites and transcriptional programs by which microorganisms act on the brain to influence specific appetites of the host. The position involves using state-of-the-art bioinformatics and data analysis approaches to probe metabolomics and transcriptomics datasets and identify the mechanisms by which nutrients and the microbiomeinfluence brain function.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with either a strong background in using molecular or metabolic approaches to attain mechanistic insights into complex biological processes such as metabolism or neuronal function (Position 1) or a strong bioinformatics background with either experience in the analysis of RNAseq or metabolomics datasets (Position 2). For Position 2, candidates with a strong biostatistics background and experience in mining large biological datasets will also be considered. Additional experience in Drosophila neuroscience, metabolism research, and microbe-host interactions are considered a plus. We strongly value team spirit and a positive and empowering work environment. You can find more information at: http://www.ribeirolab.org or inquire directly at carlos.ribeiro@neuro.fchampalimaud.org.

Candidates are encouraged to send applications (cover letter, CV, and contact information of 3 references) to careers@research.fchampalimaud.organd include “Postdoc or Bioinformatician Ribeiro lab 2019” in the subject line. Recommended application deadline is 20 February 2019. Reviewing of applications will start immediately until the position is filled. Openings are available immediately and the positions are fully funded until at least the end of 2021.

About Champalimaud Research: We aim to understand complex biological problems such as brain and behavior, physiology, and cancer. Located on the waterfront in central Lisbon, Portugal, the Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown is equipped with cutting-edge research facilities and is funded through core funding by the Champalimaud Foundation. We offer a stimulating, internationally diverse and highly collaborative work environment and competitive salary & benefits. Lisbon’s sunny climate, vibrant culture and high quality of life make this a great place to live and work. English is the official language of the institute.

We are always looking to hire interesting and motivated postdoctoral fellows!

Applicants should contact Carlos Ribeiro and include their current CV, personal statement and contact information for 3 referees. Don’t be shy. Asking has never hurt!

Graduate Students

The lab offers the opportunity to develop your own independent project while being guided by the lab. If you are interested in joining the lab as a PhD student contact Carlos Ribeiro and include a CV , a statement descrbing your scientific interest and why you are interested in our lab. Generic emails will not be answered

Undergraduate Students

We have a lot of experience in hosting budding scientists and have many interesting projects awaiting you. Interested students can feel free to get in touch with Carlos. Please write an email describing your scientific interest, why you are interested in our lab, and a plan of what you intend to do over the academic semester you intend to work in the lab. Generic emails will not be answered.